Study of a Maiden
Chic Floral Designs
Ellen Seagraves, AIFD EMC
2022 installation
2nd Floor - Great Staircase and Landings
The Inspiration
This oil-on-canvas depiction of a maiden was created by Spanish artist José Villegas as a study in preparation for his monumental painting, The Triumph of the Dogaressa, that dominates the Great Staircase at Anderson House. The finished painting depicts part of the festivities that took place in Venice in 1424 celebrating the election of Francesco Foscari as doge, or leader, of the independent Italian city. The doge’s wife, Marina— whose title was dogaressa—prepares to join her husband on the state barge, which will take the couple from their family palazzo to the doge’s palace on St. Mark’s Square. The Andersons acquired this and two other studies at the same time as the final painting, for which they paid $17,000.
Artist/Creator: José Villegas y Cordero
Date of Creation: ca. 1882
The Flowers
Florist’s inspiration: This interpretation of Jose Villegas' painting, "Girl in a White Dress,” focuses on my interpretation in thread, wire and florals, the fabric of the dress. As a former weaver and textile designer, fabrics have long been a major interest in my life.
Despite her marriage to the Doge of Venice and her symbolic status as the "Mother" of the citizens of the city, Maria Foscari, the subject of this painting, most likely had little agency over her life. Her power would have been strongest in her own household and one would hope over the choice of the dress she wore to her wedding. Venice has a rich history of textile arts and one can imagine that she had access to the finest fabrics and lace available.
It was a pleasure to combine my interests to create this piece.
THE DESIGNER
Ellen Seagraves, AIFD EMC
Chic Floral Designs
Ellen Seagraves, AIFD EMC, is a native Washingtontonian who has been creating with flowers for more than 25 years. She has a degree in weaving and textile design and had a small handmade clothing boutique for many years. That early interest had a large influence on her floral design. Incorporating textile techniques into her floral designs is a signature design style. Ellen has studied and continues to study with national and international figures in the world of floral art. Her achievement of AIFD credentials in both design and judging and study in Belgium to attain European Master Certification have furthered her design growth.
PHOTOGRAPHED BY
Myron Fields Photography
After my first year of college studying music, I decided to take the business route. I worked for several Fortune 500 businesses and even some start-ups, but the more I studied photography, there was a growing desire to serve others while doing something I truly enjoyed - so, enter wedding photography!
Serving couples, families and individuals by creating authentic, bold and editorial images is such a privilege and something I look forward to each time I pick up the camera.
My specialties include: weddings, engagement sessions and portraits.
